Acne and ensuing acne scars are a problem that plague teenagers to adults. When it comes to marks, such as acne scars, this is most likely to occur in the most severe acne cases, such as inflamed pimples that have white centers (known as pustules) or nodules, which are the most severe form of acne and cause painful lumps filled with pus. You can take several preventive measures to prevent scarring as well as improve acne symptoms.
Step 1
Initiate treatment for acne as soon as it appears. This can include over-the-counter treatments that contain benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid sulfur or other active ingredients. Because these ingredients can be drying, use an oil-free moisturizer along with these treatments to prevent irritation.
Step 2
See a physician if over-the-counter treatments do not improve your skin or if your acne is severe--especially in the event of nodules. A physician can prescribe stronger medications, such as higher-powered creams or lotions as well as pills, such as Accutane, which may help to decrease acne before it begins.
Step 3
Refrain from picking or squeezing acne, which can lead to scarring. Picking at acne can release bacteria from the bumps, causing further infection and scarring. More often than not, if pimples are left alone, the acne marks will slowly fade with time. However, a pimple that has been picked at is more likely to cause scarring.
Step 4
Avoid exposure to the sun or use a high-SPF sunscreen if you do. Acne can be exacerbated through exposure to the sun, making acne lesions or scars more visible and slower to heal.
Step 5
Use makeup products marked as non-comedogenic, oil-free or non-acnegenic. These products do not contain oil or are not associated with causing acne, which can help prevent acne and acne scarring before it starts.
Step 6
Regularly apply a moisturizer to your skin, as this can help to soften any existing lesions, which can reduce the appearance of acne marks and scarring.
Tips and Warnings
- If scarring and marks do occur, it is possible to treat these scars using a variety of cosmetic dermatology processes. These include chemical peels, laser resurfacing, dermabrasion and fractional laser therapy, all of which have been shown to reduce the incidence of scarring. The method used typically depends upon the type of acne and acne scars.
Things You'll Need
- Over-the-counter or prescription acne treatments
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